All Budget Gorilla Safaris > 5-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Big Five Safari

5-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Big Five Safari

Akagera National Park & Volcanoes National Park.

Professional Introduction.

Rwanda is one of Africa’s most remarkable safari destinations, offering a rare opportunity to combine classic Big Five game viewing with once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla trekking in a single, seamless journey. This 5-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Big Five Safari is expertly crafted to showcase the country’s most iconic wildlife experiences Akagera National Park in the east and Volcanoes National Park in the north.

From thrilling game drives across Akagera’s savannah plains to an unforgettable face-to-face encounter with endangered mountain gorillas in the misty Virunga Mountains, this safari delivers an exceptional balance of adventure, conservation, and cultural immersion. The itinerary also includes a boat safari on Lake Ihema, a visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Research Center, and an authentic Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village experience, offering deep insight into Rwanda’s heritage and conservation success story.

Ideal for first-time safari travelers, wildlife photographers, primate enthusiasts, and luxury or mid-range explorers, this safari begins and ends in Kigali, one of Africa’s cleanest and safest capitals. With comfortable lodges, expert guides, and carefully paced travel days, this journey offers a rewarding and stress-free safari experience in the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”

Why Choose a Rwanda Gorilla and Big Five Safari?

  • Combines Big Five safari and gorilla trekking in one trip

  • Rwanda’s parks are compact and easily accessible

  • High-quality guiding and excellent conservation standards

  • Ideal for short safaris with maximum wildlife exposure

  • Safe, politically stable destination with excellent infrastructure

 

Safari Overview at a Glance

  • Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights

  • Destinations: Kigali, Akagera National Park, Volcanoes National Park

  • Key Experiences: Big Five game drives, gorilla trekking, boat safari, cultural visit

  • Accommodation: Mid-range lodges (upgradeable to luxury)

  • Best Time to Travel: June–September & December–February

 

Detailed Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali – Akagera National Park | Boat Safari & Evening Game Drive

Your Rwanda safari adventure begins with a warm welcome in Kigali, where your professional driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel or Kigali International Airport. After a short briefing, you will embark on a scenic drive eastwards to Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savannah park and home to the Big Five.

Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before heading out for a boat safari on Lake Ihema, one of the park’s most rewarding wildlife experiences. The calm waters attract large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and an impressive variety of water birds, making it a paradise for bird lovers and photographers.

Later in the afternoon, proceed for an evening game drive across Akagera’s rolling plains, woodlands, and lakeshores. Look out for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and, with luck, predators such as lions and leopards.

Accommodation: Rhino Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Akagera National Park

After an early breakfast, set out for a full-day game drive in Akagera National Park. The park’s successful conservation efforts have restored populations of lions and black rhinos, completing the Big Five lineup.

Spend the day exploring different habitats, from open savannah to acacia woodland and wetlands. Wildlife sightings may include elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, lions, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, topis, impalas, and over 500 bird species.

Your guide will share insights into animal behavior, conservation initiatives, and Akagera’s transformation into one of East Africa’s most inspiring wildlife success stories. Picnic lunch will be enjoyed within the park before continuing your exploration.

Accommodation: Rhino Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Akagera – Volcanoes National Park | Cultural & Conservation Visits

After breakfast, depart Akagera and journey north to Volcanoes National Park, passing through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside of rolling hills, rural villages, and terraced farmland.

Along the way, you will stop at local markets, offering an authentic glimpse into everyday Rwandan life, followed by a visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Research Center. This educational experience highlights the legacy of Dian Fossey and ongoing efforts to protect mountain gorillas through research and community engagement.

Arrive at Volcanoes National Park in the late afternoon, with stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes. Relax at your lodge as you prepare for the highlight of the safari—the gorilla trek.

Accommodation: Davinci Gorilla Lodge or La Bambou Gorilla Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking & Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village

Today is the most anticipated day of your Rwanda safari. After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing by Rwanda Development Board rangers. You will then set off into the forest in small groups to track one of the habituated mountain gorilla families.

Gorilla trekking can take between 1 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but the reward is extraordinary—spending one magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Witness their social interactions, playful juveniles, and powerful silverbacks at close range.

In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, a community-based tourism initiative that showcases traditional Rwandan culture, music, dance, and storytelling while supporting local livelihoods.

Accommodation: Davinci Gorilla Lodge or La Bambou Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Golden Monkey Trek or Departure

After breakfast, you may opt for an optional Golden Monkey trekking experience, another exciting primate encounter unique to the Virunga region. Alternatively, you will transfer back to Kigali for your onward departure or overnight stay.

Accommodation: None
Meal Plan: Breakfast

Safari Inclusions

  • Airport and hotel transfers in Kigali

  • Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle

  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide

  • Accommodation as specified

  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary

  • Park entrance fees

  • Game drives in Akagera National Park

  • Boat safari on Lake Ihema

  • Gorilla trekking permit (subject to package confirmation)

  • Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village visit

  • Bottled drinking water during the safari

 

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights

  • Rwanda visa fees

  • Travel insurance

  • Personal expenses (tips, laundry, beverages)

  • Optional activities (Golden Monkey trekking, if not included)

  • Any services not mentioned under inclusions

 

Best Time to Do a Rwanda Gorilla & Big Five Safari

Rwanda is a year-round safari destination. However, the best months are:

Rainy seasons (March–May & October–November) offer fewer crowds and lush landscapes but can involve muddy trekking conditions.

Packing List for This Safari

  • Comfortable hiking boots

  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers

  • Rain jacket

  • Daypack

  • Camera with extra batteries

  • Insect repellent

  • Gloves for gorilla trekking

 

 FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Rwanda?

Yes. This itinerary is ideal for first-time travelers, combining Rwanda’s top wildlife attractions with comfortable travel distances and excellent guiding.

Do I need a gorilla trekking permit?

Yes. A gorilla trekking permit is mandatory and limited in availability. It should be booked well in advance.

How difficult is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

The trek can be moderately challenging due to forest terrain, but porters are available, and treks are assigned based on fitness levels.

Can children join this safari?

Gorilla trekking is restricted to persons aged 15 years and above. Other safari activities are suitable for families.

What wildlife can I expect to see in Akagera National Park?

Akagera is home to the Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo along with giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and abundant birdlife.

Is Rwanda safe for safari travel?

Yes. Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa with excellent infrastructure and security.

Final Thoughts

The 5-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Big Five Safari offers a rare and rewarding combination of savannah wildlife, primate encounters, and cultural discovery in one compact and well-organized itinerary. Whether you are seeking iconic wildlife sightings, conservation-focused travel, or an unforgettable African adventure, this safari delivers exceptional value and lifelong memories.

 

Short Day Uganda Safaris & Short Uganda Tour Holidays

 

 

Request a Quote
Request a Quote